Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley, developed by Hyper Games and published by Raw Fury, finally makes its way to the PlayStation 5 after debuting on PC earlier this year. Rooted in Tove Jansson’s beloved Moomin universe, the game offers a story-rich, musical adventure that weaves tons of charm with a touch of melancholic nostalgia. This new console version also introduces the Fuddler’s Courtship DLC, expanding on the serene yet occasionally chaotic world of Moominvalley with new content.
At the heart of the game lies its story, where Snufkin – a free-spirited wanderer – sets out to restore harmony to Moominvalley after industrialized parks have started to affect its natural beauty. The narrative is an endearing blend of environmental commentary and heartfelt interactions with the valley’s quirky inhabitants. Meeting these characters, each full of personality, provides some of the game’s most memorable moments. But while the story captures the gentle yet poignant tone of the Moomin tales, its pacing occasionally falters, especially for players unfamiliar with the source material.
Gameplay combines open-world exploration, elements of stealth, and puzzles, with Snufkin’s harmonica serving as both a tool and a symbol of connection. Using music to solve environmental puzzles and calm the disruptions caused by the Park Keeper’s influence is deeply satisfying. The game’s mechanics are intuitive and easy to grasp, though some puzzles might feel overly simple for seasoned players and shouldn’t stump anyone for too long. The stealth elements, such as evading patrols while restoring the valley’s balance, are charming but lack the depth to remain engaging throughout the adventure if stealth mechanics are what you’re after.
Visually, the game is a delight and oozes charm. The watercolor-inspired art style brings Moominvalley to life with a warmth that almost feels like stepping into a storybook. Every location is full of rich colors, with the changing seasons subtly influencing the ambiance. The developers have collaborated with Sigur Rós on the soundtrack, which elevates the experience further, as their music enhances the serene yet melancholic tone of the game. However, some of the audio elements, like character voices and sound effects, can feel repetitive over time.
The newly released Fuddler’s Courtship DLC adds a brand new short story narrative to the game. This short adventure follows Snufkin and his friend Moomintroll on a camping trip that turns into an emotional journey to help the shy Fuddler express his feelings. Set against the backdrop of autumn, the DLC enriches the main game with themes of romance and friendship while introducing new characters and surprises along the way. Though compact, it retains the same storybook charm and visual style that defines the core game, making it a worthwhile addition for fans.
The gameplay in Snufkin: Melody of Moominvalley, while cozy and accessible, sometimes lacks variety, and its slower pace might deter players seeking a more dynamic experience. However, for those who appreciate narrative-driven adventures and the gentle magic of the Moomin stories, this is a lovingly crafted journey. With its beautiful visuals, touching soundtrack, and heartfelt storytelling, the game invites players to restore harmony in both Moominvalley and feel good doing so.
Score: 8.1/10
Press Play Media 